Are you considering a move to Jacksonville, Florida? Whether you’re relocating for work, family, or just a change of scenery, Northeast Florida has plenty to offer. As Navy veteran realtors and proud Jacksonville residents, we’re excited to share five more reasons why Jacksonville is the perfect place to call home. From affordability to outdoor adventures, here’s why you should consider making the move to Jax.
1. Affordable Cost of Living
Compared to other major Florida cities like Miami, Tampa, or Orlando, Jacksonville offers a budget-friendly lifestyle. Here’s how:
- Housing Prices: The median home sale price in Jacksonville is approximately $331,000, significantly lower than Tampa ($408,000), Orlando ($415,000), or Miami ($632,000). That’s up to 89% less than Miami’s housing costs!
- Lower Everyday Expenses: Groceries, utilities, transportation, and healthcare are more affordable, allowing you to stretch your dollar further.
- Cheaper Getaways: Even hotel stays are easier on the wallet. A beachfront hotel in Jacksonville averages $200–$350 per night during peak season, about $50 less than Tampa’s luxury hotels.
Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a growing family, or a military member relocating to Jax, the affordable cost of living makes it easier to enjoy life without breaking the bank.
2. Beaches and Outdoor Life
Jacksonville’s nickname, “The River City by the Sea,” says it all. With miles of coastline and abundant natural beauty, outdoor enthusiasts will feel right at home.
- Stunning Beaches: From the lively, tourist-friendly Jax Beach to secluded state parks, there’s a beach for every vibe. You can even drive your 4x4 right onto the sand at select spots!
- Nature and Adventure: Explore walking trails, lakes, rivers, and nature preserves like the Timuquan Ecological and Historic Preserve. Kayaking, fishing, and hiking are just minutes away.
- Nearby Springs: Within a 1–2 hour drive, you can visit Florida’s famous natural springs for a refreshing day trip.
Living in Jacksonville means access to a major city’s amenities with the bonus of quick getaways to Florida’s natural wonders—no need to live in a smaller town to enjoy the outdoors.
3. Growing Job Market
Jacksonville’s economy is thriving, with diverse industries offering stable, well-paying jobs. Unlike other Florida cities that rely heavily on tourism, Jax boasts a robust job market in:
- Healthcare: Home to major employers like Mayo Clinic (8,500 employees), Baptist Health (12,000 employees), and UF Health, with over 50,000 jobs in this sector alone.
- Finance and Insurance: Companies like Florida Blue provide thousands of jobs.
- Logistics and Transportation: Jaxport, one of the nation’s largest ports, and railroads like CSX make Jacksonville a hub for imports and distribution.
- Advanced Manufacturing and Aviation/Aerospace: From Boeing at Cecil Field to contracted work at NAS Jax and Naval Station Mayport, these industries drive innovation and employment.
Whether you’re starting a career or relocating with the military, Jacksonville offers opportunities to grow without the instability of tourism-driven economies.
4. No State Income Tax
Florida’s lack of state income tax is a game-changer. More of your hard-earned money stays in your pocket, making Jacksonville an ideal place to:
- Save for the Future: Whether you’re buying a home or building wealth, no state income tax gives you a financial edge.
- Start a Business: Entrepreneurs thrive in Florida’s tax-friendly environment, and Jacksonville’s growing economy is the perfect backdrop for new ventures.
Combined with the city’s affordable cost of living, this benefit makes Jax a smart choice for families, professionals, and retirees alike.
5. Mild Weather with a Touch of Seasons
Jacksonville’s climate is a winning combination of warm summers, mild winters, and just enough seasonal change to keep things interesting.
- Mild Winters: Winters rarely dip below freezing, with only a couple of frost days. This year, we even saw a rare dusting of snow— Jacksonville’s first in 40 years!
- Cooler Than South Florida: Unlike Miami or Tampa, Jacksonville enjoys a slightly cooler climate with refreshing sea breezes, especially if you live near the coast.
- A Taste of Seasons: Experience the beauty of changing leaves in fall and vibrant greenery in spring, all without the harsh winters of the Midwest or Northeast.
Whether you’re soaking up the summer sun or enjoying a crisp winter day, Jacksonville’s weather makes it easy to embrace outdoor living year-round.
Why We Love Calling Jacksonville Home
As lifelong Jacksonville residents and realtors with The Riggs Group at Someday Homes Realty, we’re passionate about helping people discover the magic of Northeast Florida. From affordable homes to endless outdoor adventures, a thriving job market, tax savings, and perfect weather, Jacksonville has it all.
Ready to Make the Move? If you’re considering buying a home in Jacksonville—whether you’re raising a family, starting a business, or relocating with military orders—we’d love to help. Simply fill out the 'Get Started' card to connect with us and start your journey to homeownership in Jax.
Join Us at Beach Fest!
If you’re already in Jacksonville, come hang out with us at Beach Fest on June 8th at South Beach Park and Sunshine Playground in Jax Beach. Hosted by The Riggs Group, this family-friendly event features a skate park, playground, splash pad, and covered cabanas. We’ll be grilling out, and the food’s on us! Afterward, hit the beach with friends and family. Learn more at RiggsGroupFL.com.
If you’re already in Jacksonville, come hang out with us at Beach Fest on June 8th at South Beach Park and Sunshine Playground in Jax Beach. Hosted by The Riggs Group, this family-friendly event features a skate park, playground, splash pad, and covered cabanas. We’ll be grilling out, and the food’s on us! Afterward, hit the beach with friends and family. Learn more at RiggsGroupFL.com.
Ready to Call Jacksonville Home?
Subscribe to our newsletter at RiggsGroupFL.com for more tips on living in Jacksonville, and let us guide you to your dream home in Northeast Florida. Thanks for joining us—this is Jax!
Subscribe to our newsletter at RiggsGroupFL.com for more tips on living in Jacksonville, and let us guide you to your dream home in Northeast Florida. Thanks for joining us—this is Jax!
Note: All data referenced in this post, including median home prices and industry statistics, is sourced from trusted sites like Redfin, RamseySolutions.com, Zillow, and Jacksonville.gov.
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